The new graduate entry programme is being launched in 2016 through a strategic partnership between the two universities, and will cater solely to international students.

The course has been developed from St George’s International Medicine programmes, developed with INTO University Partnerships, the first in the UK to offer up to two years’ clinical experience in the US.

Students on the joint programme will take an additional, research focussed year in Philadelphia and will gain a MS-Population Health degree from TJU.

This is the key characteristic of the programme – preparing students for North American and worldwide clinical practice”

The suite of medicine programmes at St George’s, catering for international students, accommodate an estimated 80-100 new students a year.

Students on St George’s undergraduate and postgraduate International Medicine programmes can complete clinical rotations at SKMC and its affiliated hospitals during their final two years of study.

“This is the key characteristic of the programme – preparing students for North American and worldwide clinical practice, as opposed to that in the UK,” Simon Fitch, head of international development at St George’s, told The PIE News.

The two universities are also exploring potential research collaborations that will focus on major societal challenges.

“Our agreement with SKMC is great news as it provides students at both our universities with a unique opportunity to truly understand global health issues and be fully equipped for US and international residency and careers,” commented Peter Kopelman, Principal of St George’s.

“The universities, and affiliated hospitals, share remarkable similarities in their history, ethos and vision, and we look forward to capitalising on our strengths as we jointly educate the doctors of tomorrow.”